In 1997, British author J. K. Rowling introduced the world to Harry Potter and a literary phenomenon was born. Although a fantasy story, the Harry Potter book series features magic that is based partially on Renaissance…

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (published in the United States as Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone) follows Harry to the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft. While there, the young wizard uncovers…

At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft, Harry Potter learns magic spells, charms, and potions. He is taught about the natural world and its uses. This knowledge helps Harry and his friends survive adventures and defeat the villainous…

Because plants and their uses are important to wizards, all students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry are required to take Herbology. Harry Potter learns how to grow mandrakes, real plants studied by historical…

Although the wizards of Harry Potter value learning and teaching about the world around them, they do not always respect the creatures in it. Unicorns are considered sacred and pure creatures that should be used in magic without…

Throughout the novel series, Harry Potter makes crucial decisions about the fate of all living things as he attempts to thwart the villainous Lord Voldemort’s quest for a racially-pure wizard state, ultimate power, and eternal…